Southern California -- this just in

The wind off a helicopter hovering over the field kicked up a small dirt storm that swept over waiting students and parents.

Many youngsters pulled their powder blue shirts over their mouths and noses to keep out the dust, but most eyes were still open and transfixed as 3,080 golf balls were dropped from the helicopter.

St. Joachim Catholic School hosted its on-campus helicopter golf ball drop fundraiser Wednesday afternoon to begin its annual golf tournament, a benefit at the Costa Mesa Country Club. The school is trying to raise money to update its technology, buy new computers and keep tuition prices low.

The balls were pre-sold for $10 apiece. The balls closest to nine golf course flags placed on the field were awarded prizes of $100, $500, $5,000, an iPad or an electric Razor scooter.

Upper photo: Golf balls are dropped from a helicopter as part of the fundraiser for St. Joachim Catholic School in Costa Mesa. Credit: Don Leach / Daily Pilot

Lower photo: St. Joachim Catholic School students spread out over a field at Costa Mesa Country Club to pick up the golf balls, which were pre-sold for $10 apiece. Balls closest to nine flags placed on the field were eligible for prizes. Credit: Don Leach / Daily Pilot